Ignis 1.3 AMT Zeta Review

The automatic or AMT version of the Maruti Suzuki Ignis' 1.3-litre diesel engine is available in two trim levels - Delta and Zeta - which are the two mid variants, out of the four, of the crossover-like hatchback. The Maruti Suzuki Ignis 1.3 DDiS Zeta diesel AMT, which is the top-spec diesel automatic version, is priced at Rs 7.46 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi, as of April 9, 2017).

In terms of features, the Maruti Ignis Zeta diesel automatic carries over the goodies of the Delta trim and comes with a few additional ones from the top-spec, manual-only, Alpha trim. It gets chrome surround for the grille, which is not present in the two base trims. The double-din Bluetooth enabled audio system is carried over from the Delta, but it gets four-speakers instead of two, along with two tweeters. Further, there is passive keyless entry with engine push-button start-stop, along with electrically foldable and adjustable outside rearview mirrors among others. The Zeta automatic trim rides on 15-inch black alloy wheels with 175/65 cross-section tyres.

As far as safety is concerned, all variants of this entry-level Nexa model, including the Ignis Zeta diesel automatic, come with dual-front airbags (driver and front passenger) along with ABS (anti-lock braking system) and EBD (electronic brake-force distribution). Further, the Ignis also comes with child seat anchors and seat belts with pre-tensioners as standard. The Zeta additionally offers a rear washer and wiper along with a defogger. It has rear parking sensors as well.

The Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre DDiS motor in the Ignis' diesel automatic versions is one of the most common engines in Maruti's lineup, like its 1.2-litre K-series petrol engine. The 1,248cc four-cylinder diesel puts out 75PS of max power and 190Nm of peak torque and is mated to a 5-speed AMT (automated manual transmission) in the Maruti Suzuki Ignis 1.3 DDiS Zeta automatic. The ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of the Maruti Ignis diesel Zeta AMT automatic is 26.80kmpl, which is identical to its 5-speed manual counterpart.

The Ignis diesel automatic has no direct rival as such because none of its rivals offer a diesel automatic option.

With a starting price of Rs 4.59 lakh, the Ignis will snatch some of the market share from hatchbacks like the Maruti Suzuki Swift and the Hyundai Grand i10. Let's compare these cars and see how they fare against each other.